Cleanings, Exams, and X-rays at the Dentist

According to the American Dental Association, it is recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. These daily habits are essential components essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. However, they are only a part of the bigger picture. To maintain optimal oral health, the ADA also recommends regular dental cleanings and exams, which we can perform for you right here at Ford Dental Group.

Professional Dental Cleanings

The ADA recommends that you have professional cleanings at least twice a year. These cleanings are designed to help prevent serious oral health issues from occurring by removing buildup from your teeth, including from the areas that you may not be able to reach on your own. Cleanings start with a thorough scraping of your teeth. We work to remove plaque, tartar, bacteria and other harmful debris from all surfaces of your teeth, including around the roots and just below the gum line.

After the teeth are scraped clean, they are polished. This involves the use of an abrasive dental polish, which scrubs the enamel of your teeth to a beautiful finish. Finally, the teeth are flossed, which not only removes debris you may have missed, but also debris that may have accumulated during your cleaning. If necessary, we can also provide you with fluoride treatments.

Dental Exams

Exams are also recommended twice a year and are typically done at the same appointment as your cleanings. Exams allow us to spot oral health issues in their earliest stages before symptoms begin to show. We carefully check your teeth for signs of damage and decay and your gums for signs of infection. We take note of any issues that we find and recommend appropriate treatments, whether it is a filling, scaling and root planing, or other treatment.

Also, a part of your oral exam is an oral cancer screening. Detecting oral cancer early is essential for preventing serious consequences. During this screening, we examine your oral tissues for signs of abnormalities. If we find anything, we take a closer look to make a formal diagnosis, a process that also often includes a soft tissue biopsy. After we finish looking over your mouth, we discuss your oral care and lifestyle habits with you to help you optimize your oral care routine.

Dental X-Rays

X-rays are an integral component of your oral care file. These images allow us to see the hidden areas of your mouth, including between the teeth and under the gum line. We can see the roots of the teeth, your jawbone, and the periodontal ligaments, and can spot issues such as cavities, cracks, abscesses, damage to the jawbone and more. They also allow us to monitor your healing after specific treatments or changes in your teeth and jaws from visit to visit. With X-rays, we have a complete picture of everything that is happening inside your mouth, and they can help us to diagnose issues better and recommend optimal treatment plans.

Schedule Your Dentist Appointment

Combined with your at-home oral care routine, professional dental cleanings and exams can help you to keep your whole mouth happy and healthy. If it is time for your visit, call Ford Dental Group to schedule your appointment today at (714) 409-6161.